An XL Bully dog that had been previously seized by police for biting its owner left an eight-month-old baby girl in a coma. The incident occurred in Siskin Close, Hawkinge, Kent on December 11, resulting in serious injuries to the baby who was airlifted to King’s College Hospital in southeast London. The baby was placed in an induced coma in intensive care for three weeks but fortunately did not require surgery.
The dog, named Hunter and 18 months old at the time, was later euthanized by a vet following the attack on the baby. Prior to this incident, Hunter had been reported to the police for biting his owner in November 2023, causing a minor injury.
Kent Police disclosed that they had requested the dog’s owner to surrender Hunter for destruction but the owner declined. Subsequently, there were no legal grounds for the police to retain the dog, but conditions were set for the owner to keep the dog secure and supervised.
The attack on the child prompted a significant emergency response, with multiple patrol cars and officers present at the scene. A family member described the attack as uncharacteristic of Hunter, mentioning that the dog and the baby had a good relationship and would even share the travel cot.
The owner of the dog, Jordan Williams, then 18 years old, was charged with owning a dog that was dangerously out of control. He admitted to the offense in court. Pamela Williams, 77, was also arrested and charged for being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control. She pleaded not guilty, and her trial is scheduled for the following September.
Under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, it is illegal for a dog to be dangerously out of control in any place, and both the owner and the person in charge of the dog are liable for the offense. The incident occurred before the implementation of new laws banning XL bullies’ ownership, sale, breeding, or transfer in February of the previous year.
Kent Police were contacted for additional comments on the matter.
